Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
I recently celebrated nine months of residing in London. Although nine months may seem brief, I have acquired a significant amount of knowledge during this time. London is a vibrant metropolis, distinguished not only by its range of housing options but also by its multicultural population. Students are presented with a plethora of choices. Accommodations range from student housing to private rentals, including ensuite and suite bathrooms, private rooms and shared spaces, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can effortlessly set up apartment viewings, while those from abroad can utilize platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to investigate potential housing online, assess amenities, and discover public transport options nearby.
In my quest for a place to call home, my objective was to rent a room in Central London to be near prominent attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London’s transport network, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy navigation and travel across zones. I aimed to cut down on travel expenses since commuting between zones can cost as much as £5.25 each day. I opted for walking short distances rather than relying on buses or the tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made university commutes more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services differ based on distance and the pricing structure of each train operator. The high living costs in Central London’s prime attractions can be daunting. Luckily, I attended university with a friend, and we chose to share a room, leading to significant savings on rent. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with students from varied backgrounds and similar age groups, a mix that is harder to locate in private rentals.
Being close to grocery shops was essential for me. Common supermarket chains consist of Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more affordable alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Having essential stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies nearby saves time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighbourhood in London can be a daunting task. The city’s diverse ethnic communities form a crucial part of its cultural landscape, creating a vibrant mix of various neighbourhoods. Many international students seek to find elements reminiscent of their home countries within London. Southall in West London boasts a large South Asian population with Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton located in South London is famous for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music scene. Chinatown, nestled in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling hub filled with a multitude of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These represent only a few examples of community-rich neighbourhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London hinge on personal preferences and needs. When seeking new accommodation in London, revel in the diversity and richness of housing options, explore cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and excitement offered by this extraordinary city.